Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions  -  October 16, 2024

Arkansas School District Switches to Propane Buses 

Fourteen propane school buses arrived at Pulaski County Special School District in July 2024, marking the district's second alternatively fueled bus purchase. 

The school district will lower harmful emissions like nitrogen oxides amid the rollout of new emissions standards.

"We're pleased that our school buses operate on a cleaner fuel than diesel," said Dr. Charles McNulty, superintendent of Pulaski County Special School District, in a statement. "Maintenance and fuel costs are lower with the new buses. All savings will go towards supporting the transportation department to ensure our children have access to excellent transportation options to and from school."

Pulaski County Special School District currently operates 205 school buses that span the district's 600 square miles. The district originally purchased four propane buses in 2022. After success with the first round of propane buses, an additional 14 were ordered and arrived in July 2024.

The new buses equipped with propane fuel technology have replaced 14 outdated 2002-2009 model year diesel buses and will be used for daily routes, activities and athletic transportation needs. Propane reduces harmful nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 96% compared with diesel. 

To help purchase the buses, Pulaski County Special School District received a grant from Arkansas Energy Environment as well as rebates from Reduced Emissions from Diesel (GO RED). Additional funding for propane buses is available for Arkansas schools that qualify for the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Rebate Program as well as federal alternative fuel tax credits.

The school district added two 1,000-gallon on-site propane fueling stations and worked with a local propane supplier to lock in a low per gallon rate. Installing a propane fueling station costs less than any other transportation fueling infrastructure and allows drivers to quickly refuel throughout the week.